I have never done "cold turkey" or had a "spending freeze," however I have dieted for nearly two years now. I do not buy consumables unless necessary or perfect (example: the sailboat paper for my son's first day of kindergarten when his personal symbol is the sailboat). In that time I have bought very little and while I have purchased nonconsumable items it has been very little especially when compared to what it once was. Once I got started, I found it thrilling to use something up and move on. I actually celebrate a little when I use the last of something. It feels really good.